The weight of a diamond is measured in carats. One carat is divided into 100 parts called “points,” 1 ct. = t.00; ½ ct. = .50. The value of two diamonds of the same weight can vary greatly depending on the color, clarity and especially the cut.

Clarity

Practically all diamonds contain naturally occurring internal characteristics called inclusions. Diamond clarity refers to the absence of these inclusions and blemishes. Diamonds without inclusions are rare, and rarity affects a diamond’s value. Using the GIA International Diamond Grading System™, diamonds are assigned a clarity grade that ranges from flawless (FL) to diamonds with obvious inclusions (I3).

Color

Diamond color is all about what you can’t see. Diamonds are valued by how closely they approach colorlessness – the less color, the higher their value. (The exception to this is
fancy-color diamonds, such as pinks and blues, which lie outside this color range.)

Cut

When you think of the cut, you probably think of the shape of the diamond. This is only partially correct. While cut does refer to the shape, it also refers to the proportions of how the diamond is actually cut. As a value factor, cut refers to a
diamond’s proportions, symmetry and polish. It fuels the diamond’s fire, sparkle, and brilliance.
IDEAL CUT - The Ideal Cut Diamond describes a round
brilliant diamond that has been cut to exact and
mathematically proven proportions. Its symmetry, with 58 exactly placed facets, produces the ultimate in luster and beauty. When a diamond is cut to the ideal proportions, all of the light entering from any direction is totally reflected through the top and is dispersed into a display of sparkling flashes and rainbow colors.
PREMIUM CUT – A Premium Cut diamond demonstrates subtle variations from the Ideal Cut. Although dimensional differences affect a diamond’s reflection of light, a Premium Cut still achieves a harmonious balance between its
proportions and the display of brilliance.
SHAPE – Diamonds not cut into a round brilliant shape are considered fancy cuts. Fancy cuts include cushion,
princess-cut (square), heart, pear, trillion, radiant, Asscher (square step-cut), marquise, oval, triangle and emerald.